The railway is powered by people as well as many physical objects and technologies. However, the needs and experiences of neurodivergent staff in safety-critical roles are not well understood. We wanted to understand the lived experiences of neurodivergent train drivers.

What is neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity includes conditions such as:

  • Autism Spectrum Condition, also called ASC
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, also called ADHD
  • dyslexia
  • Tourette Syndrome.

These are natural differences in how people think, learn, and process information.

Key findings

We carried out interviews with train drivers and held workshops with operating companies.

We found the strengths that neurodivergent staff bring, such as focus, pattern recognition, and rule based working.

They also face challenges, including sensory overload, communication difficulties, and negative attitudes from others who do not understand neurodiversity.

Importantly, our report highlights how many parts of the train-driving role naturally suit neurodivergent strengths.

Practical help for employers

The report offers practical support for employers. This includes:

  • improving workplace culture
  • making communication clearer
  • creating more inclusive training
  • strengthening organisational processes.

Who is this report for?

The report is for:

  • leaders
  • trainers
  • Human Resources teams
  • anyone working to build a more inclusive railway.

This report focuses on neurodivergent staff. However, many of the recommended changes could benefit everyone because they promote fairness, normalise different working needs, and help all employees perform at their best.